Goats can be incredibly rewarding pets, bringing a unique charm and personality to any homestead. However, prospective goat owners should be prepared for a learning curve. These intelligent animals are known for their curious nature and can be quite adept at testing the limits of their enclosures.
One of the most important aspects of goat care is understanding their social needs. Goats are herd animals and thrive in the company of other goats. It is highly recommended to keep at least two goats together. While not mandatory, providing your goat with a companion will significantly enhance its well-being and reduce the likelihood of mischievous behavior arising from loneliness. It’s crucial to note that dogs are not suitable companions for goats. A dog’s natural instincts to sniff, chase, or play can be perceived as predatory by goats, causing them extreme stress and fear. Even a playful dog can inadvertently injure or even kill a goat due to the goat’s flight response and delicate nature.
Proper fencing is paramount for goat ownership. Goats require robust fencing that is a minimum of 4 feet tall. The fence should be constructed with posts placed on the exterior and wire mesh on the interior. This design prevents goats from using the posts as leverage to jump over the fence. The wire mesh should have openings no larger than 2” x 4” to effectively contain them. A useful guideline is: if a goat can fit its head through an opening, its body will likely follow. Gates should be hung close to the post they swing from and latch securely against another post to prevent gaps. A wobbly gate can be easily exploited by a determined goat seeking escape.
Shelter is another essential element of goat care. Goats need protection from the elements, particularly rain and wind. A simple three-sided structure provides adequate shelter. Ideally, the open side of the shelter should face away from the north and west, as these are the prevailing wind directions in many regions. Unlike some animals, goats dislike confined, cramped spaces such as dog houses. They prefer shelters that offer ample room, with a minimum of 4’x4’ space and a wide entrance and exit. The flooring of the shelter should ideally be dirt during warmer months. In winter, providing a bedding of straw or wood chips will offer warmth and comfort. It is important to avoid cedar shavings, as they are toxic to goats.
Feeding goats requires an understanding of their natural browsing habits. Goats are not strictly grazers like sheep; they are browsers, meaning they prefer to eat a variety of plants, including leaves, twigs, and shrubs. They are known to eat almost any plant material, so it is essential to fence off any vegetation you wish to protect. During the grazing season, goats will naturally browse and eat a variety of plants, often favoring taller vegetation first. However, supplemental feeding is necessary, especially during winter months when natural forage is scarce. Hay, such as mixed grass, timothy, or orchard grass, should be provided as the primary food source during these times. Hay supplementation may also be needed during summer if pasture is limited. Hay can be purchased from agricultural supply stores or local farmers. Alfalfa hay can be offered to female goats at any time and occasionally to male goats, but limit intake for males to prevent urinary stones. In addition to hay, goats benefit significantly from a daily ration of pelleted goat feed or grain feed. These feeds are formulated to provide essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring a well-rounded diet. A 16% pelleted goat feed is generally recommended, although molasses-based sweet feed can also be used.
Supplementation plays a crucial role in maintaining goat health. “Free choice” baking soda should always be available to goats. This means providing a bowl of baking soda and allowing goats to consume it as needed, similar to providing water. Baking soda helps to neutralize their gut and prevent digestive upset. Similarly, “free choice” loose minerals formulated specifically for goats should be offered. It is vital to choose a mineral supplement that contains copper, as goats have a high copper requirement. Avoid sheep and goat mineral mixes unless you are feeding sheep and goats together, as sheep mineral formulations lack the necessary copper for goats.
Access to clean water is non-negotiable for goat health. Goats are known to be particular about their water and will often refuse to drink dirty water unless they are extremely thirsty. Ensure fresh, clean water is available at all times.
Yearly health maintenance is crucial for preventative care. Goats require an annual CD&T vaccination to protect against common diseases. Follow the instructions provided with the vaccine for proper administration. Regular hoof trimming is also necessary to prevent overgrowth and maintain hoof health. The frequency of hoof trimming will vary depending on the individual goat and their environment, but regular checks are important. Resources are available online that demonstrate how to properly trim goat hooves.
Monitoring goat health includes regular stool checks. Loose stool or diarrhea can be an indicator of parasitic worms and requires prompt deworming. Learning to assess a FAMACHA score is a valuable skill for goat owners. FAMACHA scoring involves evaluating the color of the goat’s lower eyelid membrane to assess anemia, which is often associated with worm infestations. Deworming should be performed as needed based on FAMACHA scores and fecal examinations.
Finally, establishing a relationship with a veterinarian experienced in goat care is essential. Research and identify a local vet who treats goats and keep their contact information readily available. Veterinary care may be needed at some point, and having a vet familiar with goats will be invaluable.
By understanding and addressing these key aspects of goat care, you can provide a healthy, happy, and enriching environment for your goats, ensuring they thrive as enjoyable and rewarding companions.
